Mr. May
AP Language and Composition
April 23rd, 2019
What is a Euphemism?
 Euphemism- a nicer-sounding, indirect way of expressing
a harsher or more offensive idea.
 Eu: “Good”
 Phem: “Voice / Words”
 Common Examples:
 “Chad’s grandfather passed away last night.”
 “Vicky was let go from her job.”
 “My mother is getting on in years.”
 “I hear those two are sleeping together.”
 “Our dog had to be put to sleep.”
Political Euphemisms Used in the
Past
 Air bombings = “pacification”
 Deportation = “transfer of population”
 Prison camps / executions = “elimination of unreliable
elements”
 War / Assassination = “action”
 Are there words or phrases like this used today?
Contemporary Political
Euphemisms
 “Collateral Damage”
 “Capital Punishment”
 “Enhanced Interrogation”
 “Termination of a Pregnancy”
 “Pro-Choice / Pro-Life”
 “Sanctity of Marriage”
Some Less Common / Less Obvious
/ Old Fashioned Euphemisms
 “My aunt is in the family way.”
 “The United States will continue its efforts in the
Middle East.”
 “Richie and his girlfriend are living in sin.”
 “Chris needs to clean his room; his unmentionables are
all over the floor.”